Czech president has diabetes, but can keep working

PRAGUE (AP) — Czech President Milos Zeman has been diagnosed with diabetes, but his doctors say they believe his condition won’t prevent him from doing his duties.

Dr. Ales Zak says Zeman needs “medium intensive treatment” for his adult-onset diabetes, which causes a loss of sensation in his feet and has given him trouble walking.

Aside from medical treatment, doctors say they have recommended Zeman — a chain smoker with a well-document soft spot for alcohol and typically high-fat typical Czech food — diet, exercise, and cut down on drinking and smoking.

Health Minister Martin Holcat said Friday that Zeman promised to accept the recommendations. Eight percent of the Czech population has the same type of diabetes.